2017-18 Adaptability in a Changing World

The 2017-18 Action Research cohort researched the topic Adaptability in a Changing World. The teams met for training in Baltimore in June 2017, and proved to be a stellar collection of researchers! They were deeply engaged in sharing ideas across the globe, using Skype and Whatsapp groups. Research proposals have been finalized, and the literature reviews are already in place. Projects were presented at the 2018 IBSC Annual Conference in Australia.

IBSC members can view the 2017-18 Adaptability in a Changing World reports by clicking here.

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2017-18 IBSC Action Research Topic:
Adaptability in a Changing World

Adaptability requires flexibility and the ability create a new plan when things change. Adaptable people are often creative. They are willing to learn new things and try different ways of solving problems. They work well independently and happily take on new roles and challenges, but also perform well in teams because they are open to other people’s ideas. Resilient by nature, they persist through difficult situations; failure does not discourage them. Because they are flexible, they are far more likely to be happy and successful in the long term.^[1]

However, with the many pressures facing boys in our schools today — such as the focus on high academic achievement and university admissions, local and global competition, the need to be “the best” in sporting and cultural activities, conforming to the stereotypes suggested by the world of social media and advertising — it can be difficult to focus on important “soft skills” like creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration (the 4Cs)^[2]. As boys study or train for longer hours, juggle extra lessons to improve academic performance, or spend time on additional coaching in sports and cultural activities, there is little time for the very things that develop adaptability — like exploring and experimenting through creative activities, taking risks and failing, growing resilience, and taking time to be mindful and reflect.

After attending an orientation and training program prior to the 2017 IBSC Annual Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, these researchers commenced their research prjojects. In July 2018, researchers will attend the 2018 IBSC Annual Conference to present their research findings. They will participate in poster discussion sessions, and report on their projects in workshop sessions.